Van Gaal backs Klopp and Liverpool's 'fighting spirit' in title race against City

The Reds still have the lead in the Premier League title battle and the former Man United boss says their manager gives them the edge

City gave everything to defend their lead, in the way that true champions do. Manchester City 2-1 Liverpool : Jürgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola react – video. Liverpool ’ s 20-match unbeaten run was over and, for City , the title race had opened up with new possibilities.

The Liverpool and Manchester City managers give their verdicts on the dramatic contest at the Etihad Stadium. Jürgen Klopp ’ s side may have seen their lead over Manchester City cut to four points after the miraculous goalline clearance but they must move on quickly to end title drought.

Louis van Gaal believes Jurgen Klopp's style gives Liverpool an edge over Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in the Premier League title race.

City brought the title battle back to life by inflicting Liverpool's first league defeat of the season with a 2-1 win on Thursday.

However, Klopp's men still hold a four-point lead at the top and have conceded just 10 goals in 21 games – six fewer than the next best in Chelsea.

Van Gaal, who has won LaLiga, the Bundesliga and Eredivisie among numerous trophies during his coaching career, feels Liverpool are still title favourites.

Guardiola: Klopp is an incredible manager

The Reds head to the Etihad knowing a win will move them 10 points clear of the Premier League champions

Klopp then became manager of Borussia Dortmund, guiding them to the Bundesliga title in 2010–11. ^ "Manchester City win Capital One Cup: Willy Caballero the hero in shootout win over Liverpool ". 2010: Van Gaal . 2011: Klopp .

Josep "Pep" Guardiola Sala (Catalan pronunciation: [ʒuˈzɛb ɡwəɾðiˈɔlə]; born 18 January 1971) is a Spanish professional football coach and former player who is the manager of Premier League club

"Klopp has turned Liverpool into an absolute fighting machine – both attacking and defending," he told the Daily Mirror.

"So, if I was to put my money on one club for the league, it would be Liverpool.

"Liverpool's team is not based on the highest quality when it comes to their players. In fact, the highest quality players are at City.

"But, at the same time, that is the weakness in Guardiola. He only coaches his teams in an attacking way – always.

"The moment his team have to defend, they look terrible. Liverpool have a team that can defend much better."

After a record-breaking last season in the Premier League, City have stumbled this campaign, although no team have scored more than their 56.

Van Gaal said he enjoyed watching Guardiola's men, but he also praised Liverpool.

"City have fabulous football ideas and a sparkling way of playing – but not the right fighting spirit," he said.

"Don't get me wrong, I still love to watch the way City play. But the way Klopp makes Liverpool play is absolutely fantastic."

Guardiola: Man City are better now than last season.
Despite having fallen behind in the title race to Liverpool, the Catalan still believes his side are showing improvements on the pitch

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